Product Description

Methylprednisolone Tablets IP 4 mg is an oral intermediate-acting synthetic glucocorticoid (corticosteroid) used to manage a wide range of inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions. It works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, suppressing immune responses and reducing inflammation through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines and prostaglandins. Unlike anabolic steroids, it is not used for muscle building and is indicated for acute flares or chronic conditions at the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects. This medication is available by prescription only, with a rapid onset of action (typically within hours). It is metabolized primarily in the liver, so use caution in patients with liver disease. Clinical studies show varying efficacy, with symptom control in 70–80% of acute cases (e.g., asthma exacerbations per trials like those in the New England Journal of Medicine), but outcomes depend on the condition.

Uses

• Management of allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, or drug hypersensitivity.

• Inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis flares, gout, or tendonitis.

• Respiratory disorders, such as acute asthma exacerbations, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flares, or severe allergic rhinitis.

• Autoimmune and collagen diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), dermatomyositis, or vasculitis.

• Dermatologic conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or pemphigus.

• Ocular disorders, like uveitis, keratitis, or optic neuritis.

• Gastrointestinal issues, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease flares.

• Hematologic or oncologic conditions, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), as an adjunct in leukemia or lymphoma, or for multiple sclerosis relapses.

• Endocrine disorders, including adrenal insufficiency (as replacement therapy).

• Other uses: Prevention of organ transplant rejection, adjunctive treatment for certain infections (e.g., tuberculous meningitis), or reducing swelling in specific inflammatory contexts (e.g., cerebral edema).

Always use under medical supervision, as long-term use can lead to complications.

How it works

Methylprednisolone 4 mg Tablet enters cells and binds glucocorticoid receptors, translocating to the nucleus to regulate gene transcription:

• Suppresses phospholipase A2, reducing arachidonic acid derivatives and cytokine production, thereby decreasing inflammation, redness, and swelling.

• Inhibits immune cell migration and stabilizes lysosomal membranes, providing broad anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive effects.

• In allergies/autoimmunity, it blocks histamine release and mast cell degranulation. For adrenal insufficiency, it replaces cortisol. Hepatic metabolism; renal excretion of metabolites—no adjustment in mild renal impairment.

Benefits

• Rapid inflammation control: Offers quick relief for acute conditions like asthma or arthritis flares, improving mobility, breathing, and overall quality of life.

• Versatile therapy: Effective across various systems with low mineralocorticoid activity, which minimizes side effects like fluid retention compared to some other corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone).

• Immunomodulation: Helps suppress overactive immune responses in autoimmune diseases and serves as an adjunct in cancer or transplant scenarios to prevent rejection.

• Short-term convenience: Available in dose packs for easy tapering; when used appropriately, it has a lower risk of HPA axis suppression than longer-acting steroids at equivalent doses, though monitoring is essential.

How to use

Tablet: Swallow it as a whole with water; do not crush, break, or chew it.Dispersible Tablet: Check the label for directions before use. Dissolve the tablet in the specified amount of water and drink the solution. Do not crush, chew, or swallow as a whole.

Side Effects

Common side effects (often dose-related and manageable):

• Metabolic: Weight gain, increased appetite, indigestion, or insomnia.

• Neuropsychiatric: Mood changes, restlessness, or anxiety.

• Other: Sweating, acne, or hirsutism (excessive hair growth).

Less common or rare but serious side effects (seek medical attention):

• Metabolic: Osteoporosis, diabetes exacerbation, or hypertension.

• Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcers or pancreatitis.

• Ocular: Cataracts or glaucoma.

• Immunologic: Increased infection risk or delayed wound healing.

• Other: Adrenal suppression, muscle weakness, or psychiatric effects like depression.

Minimize risks by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration; supplement with calcium and vitamin D for bone health, and monitor for long-term effects.

Safety Advice

• Contraindications: Do not use in cases of systemic fungal infections, hypersensitivity to the drug, or with live vaccines (as it may reduce vaccine efficacy).

• Use with caution: In patients with peptic ulcers, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, psychiatric disorders, infections, or liver disease. Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent adrenal crisis; taper gradually.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use only if the benefits outweigh risks, as it may cause fetal adrenal suppression or low birth weight—monitor the neonate closely. It is excreted in breast milk, so use it short-term if necessary and observe the infant for side effects like irritability.

• Monitoring: Regular checks of blood glucose, blood pressure, bone density, eye exams, and adrenal function are recommended, especially for long-term use.

• Interactions: May increase gastrointestinal toxicity when combined with NSAIDs or aspirin; can reduce the effectiveness of antidiabetic drugs. Limit or avoid alcohol, and inform your doctor of all medications, including vaccines.

• Lifestyle advice: Follow a low-salt, low-sugar diet; engage in weight-bearing exercise for bone health; stay hydrated; and avoid self-medication, as misuse can lead to serious complications.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

What is the use of Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet?

Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet is used to treat a wide range of allergic reactions and inflammation in the body, including allergies, blood disorders, skin diseases, infections, and certain cancers, and to prevent organ rejection after a transplant. It suppresses the immune system, which may help manage autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues

Can Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet be taken daily?

Based on the severity of your condition, your doctor may prescribe it for daily use over a specific period. However, do not take it endlessly on your own without a doctor's advice.

Can I stop taking Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet when I feel better?

Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully resolved. However, it is recommended to complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better.

What should I avoid while taking Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet?

While taking Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet, avoid receiving "live" vaccines (such as those for measles, mumps, polio, or chickenpox) as the vaccine may be ineffective, and you could risk developing the disease again.

Can Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet cause stomach upset?

Yes, the Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet is known to cause an upset stomach. So, please take Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet with a meal to avoid an upset stomach.

Can I take Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet on my own?

It is a prescription medication provided by a doctor to treat specific medical conditions. Taking it on your own can cause unwanted side effects.

How does Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet work?

Methylprednisolone 4 Tablet works by preventing the release of substances that cause inflammation. It also suppresses the immune system and treats autoimmune conditions.